The History & Recipe for Argentinian Provoleta

Provoleta is a traditional Argentine dish that features melted provolone cheese typically seasoned with herbs and spices. It is often served as an appetizer or snack, especially during social gatherings, barbecues, or family meals. The dish has its roots in the Argentine and Italian culinary traditions.

The history of provoleta can be traced back to the Italian immigrants who settled in Argentina, bringing their culinary influences with them. Provolone cheese, which is an Italian semi-hard cheese made from cow's milk, became a popular ingredient in Argentine cuisine. Over time, Argentine cooks began experimenting with ways to prepare and serve provolone, leading to the creation of provoleta.


The preparation of provoleta is relatively simple. A round of provolone cheese is seasoned with ingredients such as oregano, red pepper flakes, and sometimes garlic. The cheese is then cooked until it becomes gooey and bubbly. Traditionally, provoleta is cooked on a grill or in a cast-iron skillet, adding a smoky flavor that enhances the overall experience.
Once melted and golden brown on top, provoleta is often served hot, accompanied by slices of baguette or other bread. Diners can use the bread to scoop up the melted cheese, creating a delicious and satisfying appetizer.

Provoleta has become a staple in Argentine cuisine, particularly in the context of asados, which are traditional Argentine barbecues. It has also gained popularity beyond Argentina and is enjoyed in various South American countries and by those who appreciate the rich flavors of melted cheese. Today, you can find different variations of provoleta, with some recipes incorporating additional ingredients like tomatoes, bell peppers, or ham to add extra depth to the dish.

Homemade Provoleta Recipe;

Ingredients:

• 1 round of provolone cheese (about 1 lb or 450g)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
• Slices of baguette or crusty bread, for serving

Instructions:

• Prepare the Grill or Skillet:
  • If using a grill, preheat it to medium-high heat. If using a skillet, preheat it over medium heat.

• Prepare the Provolone:
  • Slice the provolone cheese into about 1/2-inch thick pieces. You can leave it in the round shape or cut it into wedges.

• Season the Cheese:
  • Drizzle the olive oil over the provolone slices.
  • Sprinkle the dried oregano and red pepper flakes evenly over the cheese.
  • Optionally, you can sprinkle minced garlic on top for extra flavor.

• Cook the Provoleta:
  • Place the seasoned provolone slices on the preheated grill or skillet.
  • Cook for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on the edges. If using a skillet, you can cover it with a lid to help the cheese melt.

• Serve:
  • Once the provoleta is melted and golden brown, remove it from the grill or skillet.
  • Serve the hot provoleta immediately with slices of baguette or crusty bread for dipping.

• Enjoy:
  • Encourage your guests to use the bread to scoop up the melted cheese while it's still warm and gooey.

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other ingredients like sliced tomatoes, bell peppers, or ham according to your preferences. Provoleta is a versatile dish, and you can get creative with the seasonings and accompaniments.

Here some homemade provoleta recipe videos;

Prepare an Argentine Provoleta Recipe;

Argentinian Provoleta Recipe;

PROVOLETA CHEESE RECIPE;

 Argentinian-Style Grilled Provolone;

Provoleta with Caramelized Onions Recipe;

References;

1. Raichlen, Steven (2004). Indoor! Grilling. Workman Publishing Company. ISBN 9780761159599.
2. "How to make provoleta - Argentina's bubbling melted cheese and chimichurri salsa". 23 August 2017.
3. ¡Un aplauso para el asador!. Penguin Random House Grupo Editorial Argentina. April 2016. ISBN 9789500754446.

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